CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR MUSIC LESSONS (240) 308-0556




Student Equipment

Students should have the following equipment:

  • Trumpet or cornet
  • Music stand
  • Metronome (either a stand alone metronome or a smartphone app such as the Tonal Energy Tuner)
  • Tuner (either a stand alone tuner or a smartphone app such as the Tonal Energy Tuner)
  • Notebook or music manuscript book
  • Pencils

I highly recommend SmartMusic software to enhance student learning between lessons. This software dramatically improves student results in performing both school based repertoire and private lesson materials. (www.smartmusic.com)

 

Mouthpieces

As far as trumpet mouthpieces are concerned, I recommend for most students a Selmer Bach mouthpiece size of either 7C, 5C or 3C. The cost should be around $75 for a new mouthpiece. I will assess the students ability and needs as they progress and suggest the proper size mouthpiece that will be optimal for them.

For serious advanced students, there are a few different options for mouthpieces that range from $125 – $350. These options will be discussed as the need arises.

 

Trumpets

In my experience and opinion, there are many suitable student brands and models to start learning the trumpet on. If you do not have a trumpet yet, let’s discuss your options before renting or purchasing. The “best price online” is usually not the best idea, since there are many trumpet manufacturers that do not make quality instruments and are prone to playability and structural issues. My recommendations for a beginner student trumpet are CarolBrass, Selmer Bach and Yamaha. Purchase prices can range from around $525 and up.

Usually starting in middle school, students tend to outgrow there first instrument and find it easier to play on upgraded equipment. In these cases I recommend investing in a professional grade instrument. I personally perform on Bach Stradivarious Bb and CarolBrassBach Bb  instruments and highly suggest either:

  • Bach Stradivarious Model 37 or 43 starting around $3100 (used $1400+)
  • Shires Bb starting around $4200
  • CarolBrass Model 5060H-GSS-S starting at $1700

Any of the above instruments will take a student through high school and into college. The CarolBrass 5060H plays in my opinion just about as good as my two Bachs and is a cost effective way to upgrade to a great playing instrument. I have demo instruments that my students can try of both the Bach and CarolBrass, and can make suggestions for reputable dealers for both brands.

Advanced students who will be going to college for music will need other trumpets in various keys, such as a C trumpet, Bb flugelhorn, A/Bb Piccolo trumpet, etc. If and when it is time to invest in other equipment for your profession, I am very knowledgable on what choices are out there and which brands to investigate. Often there can be discounts for the purchase of two or more instruments (CarolBrass).